Owners Fill This Doggie's Bags

MANCHESTER — Even before she entered the PETsMART store for a shopping spree, employees knew it must be Annie celebrating another birthday.

After all, it's not every dog who arrives at the pet supermarket each year riding in a limousine.

But this is one special little Lhasa apso, at least according to the folks at the Sterling Manor health care center in East Hartford, where Annie visits a few days each month.

``The residents really do look forward to her coming,'' said Amy Patterson, director of recreation at the skilled nursing facility.

``She's a real viable asset to our programs here. She is a form of solace, healing and comfort.''

Annie visits residents at the center every other Monday, letting them pet her.

As a thank you, Annie's owners, Tim and Laura Shriel of East Hartford, took her to the PETsMART Sunday to celebrate her third birthday.

It has become an annual tradition with the family. First is the visit to the pet store, where Sunday they bought items such as dog bones, squeaky toys and a jacket. Then the limo travels to a local park for doggie playtime, followed by stops to pick up Annie's favorite foods: lobster and cannoli.

``It's crazy, I know,'' Laura Shriel said as she picked out items in the store. ``But she works hard. She is so calm and loves the attention of all the residents at Sterling Manor. It's a small part of our day to lift these people's spirit and we always feel good when we leave there.''